New Medicare Card

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New Medicare cards are coming! Medicare is mailing new cards between April 2018 and April 2019. The new card has a Medicare Number unique to you, instead of your Social Security Number. Your new card will automatically come to you—just make sure Social Security has your most up-to-date address. For more information, visit go.medicare.gov/newcard.

10 things to know about your new Medicare card

Your new card will automatically come to you. You don’t need to do anything as long as your address is up to date. If you need to update your address, visit your mySocial Security account.

Your new card will have a new Medicare Number that’s unique to you, instead of your Social Security Number. This will help to protect your identity.

Your Medicare coverage and benefits will stay the same.

Mailing takes time. Your card may arrive at a different time than your friend’s or neighbor’s.

Your new card is paper, which is easier for many providers to use and copy.

Once you get your new Medicare card, destroy your old Medicare card and start using your new card right away.

If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), your Medicare Advantage Plan ID card is your main card for Medicare—you should still keep and use it whenever you need care. However, you also may be asked to show your new Medicare card, so you should carry this card too.

Doctors, other health care providers and facilities know it’s coming and will ask for your new Medicare card when you need care, so carry it with you.

Only give your new Medicare Number to doctors, pharmacists, other health care providers, your insurers, or people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf.

If you forget your new card, you, your doctor or other health care provider may be able to look up your Medicare Number online.